Costa Rica Joins U.S. Global Entry Program

In a groundbreaking agreement signed in June 2025, Costa Rica officially became part of the U.S. Global Entry Program. This marks a major milestone for both nations, especially as tourism plays a crucial role in Costa Rica’s economy.

The signing took place during a visit by U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem to Casa Presidencial in San José, where she and Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves finalized the deal.

What Is the Global Entry Program and Why Does It Matter?

Global Entry is part of the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It allows pre-approved, low-risk international travelers to bypass traditional immigration lines and instead use automated kiosks at over 80 U.S. airports and select pre-clearance locations abroad.

The program also includes access to TSA PreCheck, which makes domestic airport screening faster and less stressful. For Costa Rica, this inclusion means eligible citizens can look forward to a much smoother experience when entering the United States.

It also means U.S. tourists visiting Costa Rica 2.75 million in 2023 alone can return home more easily, encouraging more travel between the two nations.

Costa Rican Citizens to Gain Entry into the U.S.

With this new agreement, Costa Ricans can apply for a five-year Global Entry membership, once the system is fully operational.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized the economic benefits for Costa Rica, where tourism contributes approximately 6.3% to the national GDP. “Many Americans come here to relax and enjoy themselves,” Noem said. “This will make it easier for both sides.”

President Rodrigo Chaves was named as the first Costa Rican citizen to receive Global Entry, symbolizing the deepening relationship between the two countries. Implementation is underway, and according to Immigration Director Omer Badilla, system integration should be completed within a few weeks.

How to Apply for Global Entry in Costa Rica

Once launched, Costa Ricans can begin the application process by creating a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) account online. After paying the non-refundable fee and passing a background check, applicants will be invited for an interview.

Though Costa Rica doesn’t yet have its own enrollment center, eligible applicants can complete their interview at participating U.S. airports.

The final step involves linking Costa Rica’s vetting systems with the CBP to ensure all data-sharing protocols are met. According to Foreign Minister Arnoldo André, this phase was nearly finalized as of February 2025.

Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck

It’s important to distinguish between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck. While TSA PreCheck only expedites domestic security screening, Global Entry covers both international immigration and domestic TSA benefits. For frequent Costa Rican travelers to the U.S., Global Entry is the more comprehensive and beneficial program.

With direct routes between Costa Rica and major U.S. cities like Miami, Dallas, Houston, and New York, the ability to avoid long immigration lines is a major time-saver. Travelers who previously faced delays can now enjoy a much faster re-entry experience.

Boosting Travel Between Costa Rica and the U.S.

Travel agencies, the Costa Rican-North American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham), and the National Tourism Chamber have all applauded the agreement.

It’s expected to strengthen tourism and encourage more U.S. visitors to explore Costa Rica’s beaches, volcanoes, and rainforests, knowing their return journey will be easier.

On the other hand, Costa Rican citizens traveling for business, education, or leisure will benefit from reduced wait times at over 80 U.S. ports of entry. This ease of access fosters deeper economic ties and cultural exchange.

Is Global Entry Worth It for Costa Rican Travelers?

Absolutely. A five-year membership brings significant benefits, including faster customs processing, reduced airport stress, and TSA PreCheck inclusion. While the process involves a background check and interview, it’s a worthwhile investment for frequent flyers.

As more Costa Ricans begin using Global Entry, the country’s international travel reputation and connectivity are expected to grow even stronger.

List of Global Entry Program Countries (June 2025)

Costa Rica now joins a select group of nations with reciprocal agreements for the Global Entry Program. Participating countries include:

• • Argentina

• • Australia

• • Brazil

• • Bahrain

• • Canada (via NEXUS)

• • Colombia

• • Costa Rica

• • Croatia

• • the Dominican Republic

• • El Salvador

• • India

• • Japan

• • Germany

• • Mexican Nationals

• • The Netherlands

• • Panama

• • Singapore

• • South Korea

• • Switzerland

• • Taiwan

• • United Arab Emirates

• • United Kingdom

Each of these countries has developed its own internal screening and vetting systems. Approved citizens from these nations are forwarded to the CBP for final clearance. Once accepted, travelers can use Global Entry kiosks to bypass traditional immigration lines at major U.S. entry points.

Conclusion

Costa Rica’s inclusion in the U.S. Global Entry Program is a forward-thinking step that boosts tourism, strengthens diplomatic relations, and improves the overall travel experience.

Whether you’re a Costa Rican citizen heading to the U.S. or an American planning a return trip from paradise, the benefits are clear.

As the system becomes fully operational in the coming months, now is the perfect time to prepare for enrollment, understand the application process, and experience the convenience of trusted, expedited travel between Costa Rica and the United States.